Lunenfeld Beautification Grants

The Lunenfeld Beautification Grants are offered by Gardens Buffalo Niagara as a way to support community-based greening efforts throughout the City of Buffalo. This signature grant program was named in honor of Marvin Lunenfeld, founder of Garden Walk Buffalo, and since its inception in 2004, it has funded over 200 beautification projects with a cumulative total exceeding $170,000. In 2022, Gardens Buffalo Niagara consolidated their original Lunenfeld and Vibrant Buffalo Beautification programs into one citywide initiative under the Lunenfeld name, expanding its scope to fund projects throughout the entire City of Buffalo. The grant is designed to support publicly visible and accessible gardening and beautification projects that foster community engagement and environmental enhancement. Eligible projects include community gardens, historic garden restoration, tree planting, rain gardens, street-side planters, street pole basket hangers, and any other creative public gardening initiative. Projects must be located within Buffalo city limits, be visible from the sidewalk, take place in public or publicly accessible spaces (not private yards), and must be organized by a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization or be sponsored by one. Projects must also demonstrate access to a water source. Grants of up to $1,000 are available to selected block clubs and community groups. While the grant funds may be used for a broad array of gardening needs, there are explicit exclusions: applicants may not request funding for large tools (only small hand tools are permitted), lighting, spring-blooming bulbs, grass seed, peat moss, or fertilizer. However, groups that are selected for a grant will receive a complimentary one-year membership to the Tool Library, which can help offset the restriction on large tool funding. Applications are evaluated by a volunteer committee composed of experienced gardeners and community members. The review process considers several factors including the feasibility of the proposed project, its environmental sustainability, and the potential for community impact and engagement. Projects that demonstrate clear plans for maintenance, long-term viability, and incorporate elements like native plants or pollinator support will receive stronger consideration. The timeline for the 2026 grant cycle begins with the application deadline on March 15, 2026. Award notifications and presentations will take place on April 19, 2026, and recipients are required to register for the East Side Garden Walk or Garden Walk Buffalo (if applicable) by May 15. Projects must be fully completed by July 15, and final reconciliation of expenditures must be submitted by September 15. All materials must be submitted on time; late or incomplete applications will not be considered. For additional information or assistance with the application process, applicants are encouraged to contact Gardens Buffalo Niagara directly via email at [email protected] or by phone at (716) 247-5004.

Projects with community engagement, feasible design, and environmental benefit are prioritized.